[wadiano]

This started a few weeks ago on my 2004 Rav4. I thought it might be an axle or cv joint. It makes a loud creaking noise when I make a turn, left or right. My mechanic said I needed struts when I brought it to him. Struts replaced, noise still there. Next replaced were sway bar bushings. He said they looked worn and kind of glazed like they were rubbing a lot. Creaking still there. He assures me this isn't dangerous as he's checked components that could cause serious problems if they fail. He also replaced an axle that looked like it was starting to go and still the creaking continues. Anyone have any ideas?

 

[naamanator]

could be things like lower control arm bushes or lower ball joint or top shockie plates... just some ideas

 

[03rav4inPA]

Did you visually look at the motor mounts? Are they cracked/rotted?

 

[AW111]

I recently had a creaking on my Rav4.1. It would happen when I'd first drive off...kinda like stretching its joints out...then it would settle down and only happen when I'd going over certain bumps...or like entering driveway incline or a drive thru ramp.

Anyhow...upon visual inspection I could see my ball joints & tie rods were wore out. I'm in the process of changing them all right now.

It sounded kinda like this:

 

[wadiano]

This kind of sounds like the same thing. Thank you very
Much for posting those videos. I have to believe
my mechanic would have inspected those parts but you
Never know. I'll show it to him. Thank you again!